The future of DNA repair and cancer stem cells

Abstract

The existence of cancer stem cells (CSCs), tumor-initiating cells (TICs) or cancer-initiating cells (CICs) has been a topic of hot debate in the field of cancer biology. The molecular mechanism(s) which this specific subpopulation of cells utilize to sustain themselves is currently under investigation. Recent studies demonstrate that CSCs express enhanced DNA repair mechanisms which can contribute to their ability to evade traditional cancer treatments. The following is a summary of the previous chapters presented in this text with an emphasis on the future of CSCs and their potential contribution to the development and identification of novel therapies and targets.